Thermal Expansion Formula
dL = alpha x L x dT
dL = change in length, alpha = CTE, L = original length, dT = temperature change
Why It Matters
- Welded structures can develop significant thermal stresses if expansion is restrained
- Piping systems need expansion joints or loops for temperature cycling
- Machined parts with tight tolerances must account for shop vs. service temperature
- Dissimilar metal joints expand at different rates, causing stress at the interface